Asian Pacific Journal of Reproduction

Pages 8-12

Authors: Rohit Dhumal, N.A. Selkar, M.B. Chawda, K.S. Thakur, M.K. Vahalia, Venu Gopal Jonnalagadda, Geeta Vanage

Objective To evaluate the safety & efficacy of Maa-Lact granules for its galactogougue activity in Holtzman rats and its effect on suckling pups. Methods Group I rats were treated as control, group II and III rats were treated with 500 mg/kg, 1 000 mg/kg of Maa-Lact granules for 21 days. Weekly body weights of dams and pups were collected, litter survivability for 22 days and ocular blood samples were collected on 1st day of parturition and 21st day of post parturition for the estimation of prolactin levels. On 21st day blood samples were collected from retro-orbital sinus for haemotological and biochemical estimations. On the same day of weaning rats were sacrificed and subjected to necropsy and individual organ weights were recorded. Results No significant difference in weekly food weight consumption, body weights between control & treated groups with normal clinical signs. There is no mortaly in dams throught the study period with no significant difference in pups weights. The percentage mortality in pups was 14.43 %, 14.07 %, and 13.42% in group I, group II and group III, respectively. The histopathological finding has shown that treated groups have less convulution and adipose tissue deposition along with increase in length and branching of lactiferous duct and alveolar size. Conclusion Based on above results, it can be concluded that Maa-Lact posseses significant galctogogue activity.

Pages 18-22

Authors: G. Ganapathy Selvam, K. Sivakumar

Objective To investigate the effect of Seaweed Liquid Fertilizer (SLF) of the red seaweed Hypnea musciformis (Wulfen) Lamouroux (H. musciformis). on the growth, biochemical and pigment characteristics of Arachis hypogea (A. hypogea). Methods Experiments were conducted on ground nut to study the potential red alga of H. musciformis as a biofertilizer. The seeds were sown in soil and SLF were added to soil bed in five different concentrations separately (1%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% w/v). Results The 2% concentration of water extract showed better results of growth parameters, biochemical and pigments constitutions. Among the different concentrations of SLF investigated, the plants that received with 2% SLF showed maximum germination percentage, fresh weight, dry weight, root and shoot length, number of branches, leaf area, root nodules and content of total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a and b, protein, carbohydrate and lipid were observed at 2% concentration of SLF. The leaf of 2% SLF treated A. hypogea has subjected to Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive spectroscopic analysis, it revealed that the presence of ten elements in the following order: Ca>P>N>Na>K>Mg>Mn>S>Fe>Zn in treated and Ca>N>P>Na>Mg>Mn>K>Zn>S>Fe in control plant. The data generated from study reveal that SLF of H. musciformis could be used as foliar spray at low concentration of 2% to maximize the growth and yield of A. hypogea and also increase the number of stomata in the leaf. Conclusion It is suggested that there are considerable gains to be made in increasing yield and stabilizing the yield in environments characterized by terminal requirement for organic and by shortening crop duration nutrient management appear promising.

Pages 30-34

Authors: Mahmoud Fathy Hassan

Objective To evaluate the role of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for prediction of pregnancy loss in patients with history of unexplained early recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Methods A prospective case control study was conducted in 42 women with history of unexplained early RPL, and 170 pregnant controls with history of uncomplicated pregnancy. We measured maternal serum sFlt-1 and VEGF at gestational age 6–9 weeks as predictor for pregnancy loss. Results Mean serum levels of sFlt-1 and VEGF were significantly higher in RPL group than controls (10439.7±385.4 vs 3304.5±104.8; P<0.0001, for sFlt-1, and 1885.0±98.3 vs 709.8±24.8; P<0.0001, for VEGF). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analyses established that sFlt-1 and VEGF were able to discriminate women at risk of developing pregnancy loss with area under ROC curve 0.970 for sFlt-1 and 0.953 for VEGF. Cutoff value of 5159.5 pg/mL for sFlt-1 was predictor for early pregnancy loss with 95.2% sensitivity, 91.2% specificity, and odds ratio (OR) 206 [95%confidence interval (CI), 45.4–941]. Cutoff value of 915.5 pg/mL for VEGF was predictor for early pregnancy loss with 92.9% sensitivity, 90.6% specificity, and OR 125 [95% CI: 34.7–451]. Conclusion These data advocate a relationship between sFlt-1, VEGF, and RPL suggesting that the high levels of sFlt-1 and VEGF might be associated with the pathogenesis of RPL.

Pages 41-45

Authors: Stanimir A. Yotov, Anatoli S. Atanasov, Georgi B. Georgiev, Julieta D. Dineva, Nadejda A. Palova

Objective To investigate some blood biochemical parameters in anoestrous dairy cows with cystic ovarian follicles (COF) during the first two months post partum and the effect of hCG-PGF2α -GnRH treatment on their reproductive response. Methods The investigation was performed on 20 lactating Holstein cows, divided into two groups: control group (n=8) and treated group (n=12). All animals had cystic ovarian follicles, detected during the two consecutive transrectal ultrasound examinations at 7-day interval. Blood samples from each animal were collected on the day of second ultrasonography (Day 0) and subjected to a hormonal and biochemical analysis. Treated cows were subjected to another ultrasound examination on day of prostaglandin injection and the presence of corpus luteum was recorded. The control animals were not treated, while the treated group received 1 500 IU hCG on day 0, PGF2α 500 mg on day 7 and 100 μg GnRH 48 hours latter. Eighteen hours after GnRH administration animals bearing corpus luteum on Day 7 were artificiallly inseminated. The last ultrasound examination was made forty days after start of the threapy. On the base of the obtained results, cumulative oestrous activity, cumulative ovulation rate, pregnancy rate and COF persistence were determined. Results The blood analysis in the both groups on Day 0 showed significantly (P<0.05) lower mean concentration of progesterone, glucose and inorganic phosphate compared to the reference range values for cyclic dairy cows. Cumulative oestrous activity (91.7%) and cumulative ovulation rate (75.0%) were considerably higher (P<0.05) in treated group than control group, whereas the cystic follicle persistence (25.0%) was lower (P<0.05) in the treated group than control group. Conclusions The present study confirmed the thesis for low blood levels of glucose and inorganic phosphate in cows presenting cystic ovarian follicles. It also indicated significant improvement of cumulative oestrous activity and ovulation rate in animals subjected to hCG-PGF2α -GnRH administration than non-treated animals. The used hormonal protocol could decrease cystic ovarian follicle persistence in dairy cows.

Pages 53-56

Authors: Amr H. Yehia, Magdy H. Koleib, Ibrahim A. Abdelazim, Ahmed Atik

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of tranexamic acid in reduction of blood loss during and after cesarean section. Methods Women included in the current double blinded, randomized, controlled trial were recruited from women attending for elective cesarean section and randomized into two groups; study group: received tranexamic acid with induction of anesthesia plus 10 IU of oxytocin injection after delivery of the baby. Control group: received only oxytocin 10 IU injection after delivery of the baby. Results Twenty four hours post-operative hemoglobin level was significantly higher in study group (11.2 ± 1.5 mg/dL) compared to control (9.6 ± 1.2 mg/dL), also 24 hours post-operative hematocrit was significantly higher in study group (30.2 ± 6.6) compared to control (29.2 ± 2.8). Calculated total blood loss from placental delivery till end of cesarean section was significantly less in study group compared to control (369.5 ± 198.0 versus 606.8 ± 193.0 mL; respectively), also, calculated vaginal bleeding during first 6 hours post-operative was significantly less in study group compared to control (85.0 ± 30.7 mL versus130.8 ± 49.3 mL, respectively). The incidence of post-partum hemorrhage was significantly less in study group compared to control (31.1% versus 63.2%; respectively), also the need for iron replacement therapy was significantly less frequent in study group compared to control (0.9% versus 6.6%, respectively).

Pages 64-70

Authors: Cristianne Serafim da Silva Feuser, Jacklyne Silva Barbosa, Evelyn Barzotto da Silva, Sebastião Freitas de Medeiros

Objective To assess the gonadotrope cell function in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods This study included 42 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, aged 26.6 ± 5.9 years, and 13 eumenorrheic controls, aged 30.1 ± 4.6 years. Gonadotropins, sex steroids, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), cortisol, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin, free thyroxin, and insulin were measured. Gonadotrope cell function was assessed at baseline and at 30 and 60 min after gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) injection. Results Luteinizante hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), total testosterone (T), androstenedione (A), and 17- hidroxyprogesterone (17-OHP4) levels were higher (P<0.05) and SHBG levels was lower (P<0.05) in PCOS patients. The LH response to GnRH stimulation was higher in PCOS patients than in controls (P<0.05). Positive correlations between progesterone (P4) and LH at baseline or the area under the curve (AUC) of LH was found only in PCOS patients. No association was found between estradiol (E2), insulin, T, and A concentrations with the LH increment in any group (P>0.05). Positive correlation between insulin and the AUC of LH was identified in controls. Conclusion The current study confirms the hypersecretion of LH in PCOS patients after the newest diagnostic systematization. The gonadotrope response to GnRH stimulation in PCOS patients was associated with the baseline levels of LH, P4, insulin.

Pages 77-79

Authors: V Ramakrishnan, S Gowtham Kumar, Radha Pandiyan

Klinefelter's syndrome is the most common genetic disorder in which there is at least one extra X chromosome. Males normally have an X chromosome and a Y chromosome (XY). But males who have Klinefelter syndrome have an extra X chromosome (XXY), giving them a total of 47 instead of the normal 46 chromosomes. Sex chromosome abnormalities are more frequently associated with male infertility. The prevalence of XXYs has risen from 1.09 to 1.72 per 1 000 male births. A patient attended to fertility and genetic clinic, during the clinical diagnosis we found the following complaints of loss of secondary sexual characteristics and infertility. Physical examination revealed breast development, thin built, small size testes, and absence of beard and pubic hairs. Karyotype and biochemical analysis were performed to detect chromosomal abnormality as well as hormonal level to confirm the diagnosis of Klinefelter's syndrome. Chromosomal analysis of the peripheral blood lymphocytes demonstrated the constitutional karyotype of 47, XXY. Using karyotype the presence of extra X chromosome was confirmed, supporting the cytogenetic finding. The 47, XXY syndrome is relatively uncommon and can be missed clinically because of its variable clinical presentations. Accurate diagnosis of this constitutional karyotype provides a valuable aid in the counselling and early management of the patients who undertake fertility evaluation.

Pages 83-84

Authors: Viroj Wiwanitkit

This short article specifically focuses on the new emerging H7N9 influenza which has just been observed since early 2013. As a new disease, it is lack for the knowledge on the new H7N9 influenza. Here, the author will discuss on the impact of emerging H7N9 influenza on pregnancy.

Pages 258-262

Authors: Mark Daniel Wilson

Objective This investigation was undertaken in the hope of delineating the effects of four different treatments on male reproductive biology in a rat model. The effect of cryptorchidism, gonadectomy, pharmacological ablation of Leydig cell function and androgen-treatment was examined; these four treatments illustrate four different factors influencing and controlling male sexual function in a reproducible animal model. Methods Total body weight, androgen concentration, gonad weight and secondary sex organ weights were measured for the four-abovementioned treatment groups and correlated to function. Results It was demonstrated that total body weight decreased for all treatment options. The testicular-derived testosterone concentration for EDS-treated and castrated rats was determined to be zero, although adrenal production continues. Testis weight was shown to decrease following testosterone administration as a consequence of feedback inhibition. Both the prostate and seminal vesicles are highly androgen-sensitive, and as such both experienced an increase in weight following testosterone administration. Conclusions This experimental setup was successful in elucidating the physiological mechanisms involved in male reproductive function. Body weight, the weights of the testes and accessory sex organs and androgen levels were intrinsically related to basal androgen levels.

Pages 268-274

Authors: Eliza Angela A. Lofamia, Gliceria B. Ramos, Mark Anthony C. Mamon, Felice Margarette Salido, Glenn Sia Su, Miriam P. de Vera

Objective To determine the influence of maternal Isoflavone-supplementation during peri-conception period on the reproductive organs of the first generation (F1) murine weanling-stage offspring. Methods Sexually-mature female mice were randomly distributed into the Control group (C) that was fed with food pellets only, treatment groups that were designated as High Dose (HD), Medium Dose (MD) and Low dose (LD) that were fed with food pellets + Isoflavone Genistein dosages of 150.0, 100.0, and 50.0 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Supplement was given two weeks prior to mating and throughout a 21-day gestation period. The pups that were delivered on the 21st day were allowed to mature up to the 28th-day postnatal age then sacrificed by cervical dislocation. The testis and epididymis of males and ovaries and oviducts of females were obtained for histological analyses. Results Histological analysis of the testes showed clogged luminal spaces and indistinct population of spermatogenic cells in the HD group while the development of the ovaries from all test groups appeared intact. The luminal and tubular diameter of epididymis were unaffected in the isoflavone-supplemented groups. The epididymis of HD group exhibited poorly developed cauda segment and atrophy of the caput segment but not for MD and LD groups. The oviducts of the HD and MD groups exhibited collapsed muscularis layer and indistinguishable mucosa layer with HD being the more severe. The LD and Control groups showed well-developed mucosa layer. Conclusion Results showed that maternal isoflavone-supplementation when administered at a high dose of 150 mg/kg body weight during peri-conception period can induce adverse effects on the reproductive organs of first generation (F1) murine weanling-stage offspring.

Pages 282-287

Authors: Garima Sharma, Madhu Kumar

Objective To investigate the sodium arsenite induced damages on the reproductive system of male mice as well as to examine whether Chlorophytum borivilianum (C. borivilianum) is able to ameliorate the damages. Methods A different group of adult Swiss albino mice was made such as control group, sodium arsenite group, post combination group, pre and post combination group. After the treatment, the testis was removed, weighed and processed for histopathological observation. Cauda epididymis was used to observe abnormal sperms. Results A highly significant depletion was found in all the germ cell populations such as spermatogonia A and B, primary and secondary spermatocytes, spermatids in arsenic treated group with respect to control whereas recovery is found in combination groups. Conclusions The results conclude that C. borivilianum significantly protects against arsenic-induced damages.

Pages 295-298

Authors: Aisha M. Elbareg, Fathi M. Essadi, Kamal I. Anwar, Mohamed O. Elmehashi

Objective To assess the value of hysteroscopy in unexplained infertility. Methods 200 infertile women in whom standard infertility investigations revealed no abnormalities were included in the study between January 2009 and December 2013. All women underwent hysteroscopy for diagnosis and treatment of any uterine lesion which was previously undetected by hysterosalpingography (HSG). Treated women were followed up for one year during which pregnancy rate was determined. As all other causes that contribute to infertility (other than the subtle uterine lesions) were excluded. No other infertility treatment was performed during this period. Results Of the 200 women studied, hysteroscopy revealed abnormalities in 65 (33%) women. Most uterine abnormalities were mild adhesions, small submucous myomas and polyps and their incidence was greater in women aged ≥ 30 years and women with secondary infertility. The overall pregnancy rate in the treated women within one year of follow up was 46%. Conclusion As a cause of unexplained infertility, subtle uterine abnormalities are diagnosed only during hysteroscopy and they are relatively common in infertility women. Although the presence of these abnormalities is not detected by the basic investigations for infertility, their correction seems to be necessary when infertility is desired and other infertility causes are excluded.

Pages 305-310

Authors: Akter Mst Yeasmin, Talukdar Muhammad Waliullah, ASM Shafiqur Rahman

Objective To investigate the co-toxicity and co-efficient activity of Chlorpyrifos (Dursban 20EC), an organophosphate and Piperonyl butoxide (PBO) against the lesser meal worm Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) (A. diaperinus). Methods The repellent activity was carried out by the residual film assay technique. Statistically the dose mortality relationship was expressed as a median lethal dose (LD50) by the probit analysis. The regression lines and isoboles were drawn using the Fig-P (Biosoft) package. Results The Co-efficient values showed that all ratios of chlorpyrifos and piperonyl butoxide offered synergistic action to both larvae and adult. We observed that the toxicity of the chlorpyrifos was decreased as the ratio (amount) of PBO was increased. The individual LD50 value of chlorpyrifos for adult is 0.1241 µg/cm2. But in the mixture, the share of chlorpyrifos are 0.0298, 0.0366, 0.0246 and 0.0108 µg/cm2 at ratios of 1:1, 1:3, 1:5, 1:10 when PBO causes reduction of dose level of 75.84%, 70.53 %, 80.19% and 91.30% respectively. In case of larvae the individual LD50 value of chlorpyrifos is 0.2943 µg/cm2. But in the mixture, the share of chlorpyrifos are 0.05, 0.019, 0.015 and 0.010 µg/cm at ratios of 1:1, 1:3, 1:5;1:10 when PBO causes reduction of dose level of 80.01%, 93.54%, 94.90% and 96.60% respectively. Conclusions The study suggests that the mortality rate of lesser meal worm is increase with the increase of insecticide dose. The LD50 values of the insecticides are inversely related to the toxicity of the insecticides i.e. higher the LD50 value lower the toxicity of the insecticide.

Pages 317-319

Authors: Sueptrakool Wisessombat, Chatruthai Meethai

Objective To investigate the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in dyspepsia patients and its relation to virulence factor cagA gene. Methods In total, 110 gastric biopsies from dyspeptic patients were comparatively studied using rapid urease test and multiplex PCR. Multiplex PCR detected three genes of 16S rRNA, cagA, and ureC. Results H. pylori was detected in 14 gastric biopsies (13%). Significantly higher number of female were infected. Furthermore, cagA gene was found in all H. pylori–positive specimens. In addition, the result indicated that the multiplex PCR with annealing temperature at 57 oC was able to effectively amplify specific products. Conclusion The results confirmed that high preva¬lence of cagA gene in H. pylori among dyspeptic patients in Southern Thailand.

Pages 322-336

Authors: G N Purohit, Mitesh Gaur, Chandra Shekher

Parturition related mammary gland pathologies in the buffalo appear to be low on accord of anatomic (longer teat length, thicker streak canal) and physiologic (lower cisternal storage of secreted milk, lower milk production) differences with cattle. Hemolactia, udder edema and hypogalactia usually occur in the buffalo due to physiologic changes around parturition however mastitis involves pathologic changes in the udder and teats; the incidence of mastitis is however lower compared to cattle. The incidence and therapy of hemolactia, udder edema and hypogalactia are mentioned and the risk factors, incidence, diagnosis, therapy and prevention for mastitis in buffalo are also described.

Pages 176-179

Authors: P.F. Wong, M.P.L. Cheung, O WS, F. Tang

Objective To study the effect of inter medin(IMD) on smooth muscle of rat seminal vesicles including the specific receptors and the signal pathways involved. Methods The contraction of the seminal vesicle in response to norepinephrine (NE) and ADM2/IMD was studied by the organ bath method. The effects of antagonists for calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP), adrenomedullin (ADM) and IMD receptors, and inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase, [L-NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester, L-NAME) and cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), KT5720] were also investigated. The first overshoot, amplitude, frequency and basal tone were measured. Results There is no significant effect of IMD on the initial overshoot, frequency and the basal tone in the seminal vesicle contraction. Only the amplitude of the contraction induced by NE was inhibited by IMD. The IMD inhibitory actions on amplitude were completely blocked by hADM22-52 and L-NAME, but not by hCGRP8-37 or KT5720. Furthermore, the action was diminished by IMD17-47. Conclusion The results demonstrated that the inhibitory action of IMD on NE-induced seminal vesicle contraction was mediated via the ADM receptor(s) and the nitric oxide production pathway, partially by the IMD receptor, but not by the CGRP receptor and the cAMP-PKA pathway.

Pages 184-191

Authors: Amal M. Abo El-Maaty, Gamal A. El Sisy, Mona H. Shaker, Omima H. Ezzo

Objective To study the effect of age and body fat on leptin levels and semen parameters of Arab horse. Methods Fifteen fertile Arab stallions of different ages belonging to Police Academy were divided into three equal groups according to their age. Old horses are those of >18 yeas (18–27), Mid-age horses ≥13 to 18 years (13–18), Young horses are those of <12 years (7–11). Semen was evaluated three times for each stallion. Blood and seminal plasma were assayed for measuring leptin, testosterone and estradiol. Subcutaneous rump fat thickness was measured using ultrasound for estimating body fat percent and fat mass percent. Results All body fat parameters were significantly high in Young stallions and decreased with increasing age. As age increased, testosterone levels increases but leptin levels decreased. Age was inversely correlated with fat %, fat mass and leptin. All fat parameters had direct correlation with leptin in semen and serum but an inverse one with serum testosterone. Serum leptin directly correlated with sperm cell concentration in Mid-age stallions and inversely correlated with percent of live sperm in Old stallions. Semen leptin correlated directly with both percent of live sperm and percent of abnormal sperm in Old stallions. Conclusion This study proved that aging in stallions is related to a drop in fertility, a decrease in body fat and in turn leptin. Arab stallions of age 7 to 18 years could be used in the breeding efficiently.

Pages 200-203

Authors: Omid Aminian, Seyed Ali Akbar Sharifian, Nazanin Izadi, Khosro Sadeghniiat, Anahita Rashedi

Objective To evaluate the effect of maternal employment on birth weight and gestational age. Methods In this project, 1 272 pregnant women were recruited from whom referred to Tehran hospitals during 1 year via randomized sampling. Data were gathered through history taking and medical records. In this study, 564 employed women were classified as exposure group and 708 housekeepers were as the control group. Chi square test, t-test, One-way ANOVA and logistic regression were used to analyze data. Results In this study, mean mother age was 25.01 years and mean birth weight was (2 884±684) g. The mean birth weight in housekeepers was significantly higher (2 991±457 g) than employees (2 726±476 g) (P=0.002). The infants' mean birth weights in farmer were the lowest and in office workers (2 831±526 g) was the highest (P<0.01). Gestational age less than 37 weeks was more common among employees. The mean birth weight decreased when the working hours increased (P<0.01). In those mothers who were working less than 3 months there were a higher mean birth weight (P<0.01). Also the mean birth weight decreased due to the hours of standing during a day. Conclusion Women employment during pregnancy has an important role in low birth weight and preterm labor compared to those who do not work.

Pages 210-217

Authors: G. Kadirve, Satish Kumar, S.K. Ghosh, P. Perumal

Objective To investigate the activity of antioxidative enzymes in fresh and frozen thawed spermatozoa in relation to lipid peroxidation and semen quality in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bulls. Methods Forty two semen ejaculates from seven buffalo bulls were collected by artificial vagina method and were used for the study. Sperm motility, livability, plasma membrane and acrosomal integrity, buffalo cervical mucous penetration test were assessed in fresh and frozen thawed semen. Intracellular antioxidative enzymatic activity such as super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were estimated in fresh and frozen thawed semen. Results A significant (P<0.01) reduction in activity of antioxidative enzymes (SOD by 47.7%, GSHPx by 62.7% and GSH by 58.6%) in frozen thawed spermatozoa as compared to fresh spermatozoa was found. Although the catalase activity was varied from 0 to 3.8 IU/109 sperm in fresh semen, but after freezing and thawing this activity was not detectable. These enzyme activities had a strong positive association with sperm motility, membrane integrity and distance traveled by vanguard spermatozoa in buffalo cervical mucus and negative correlation with LPO and ROS. However, no significant correlation with acrosomal integrity was found. Conclusion It was concluded that loss of activity of intracellular antioxidative enzymes was evident after freezing and thawing and there was a strong association between the antioxidative enzyme activities, ROS, lipid peroxidation and sperm function in buffalo semen.

Pages 224-230

Authors: K.H. El-Shahat, N.F. Khaled, F.I. El-Far

Objective To study the effect of somatotropin administration on growth and puberty attainment of Rahmani ewes -lamb. Methods Twelve Rahmani ewes–lamb of 6–7 months of age and average body weight (24.75 ± 0.16) kg were randomly allotted into two equal groups. The first group served as control and the second group was somatotropin-treated. The ewe-lambs were weighed at the start and at the end of the experiment. In addition, the body condition score, withers height and heart girth were determined at the end of the study. Blood samples were collected weekly till the end of experiment (Twelve weeks). Sera samples were assayed for progesterone, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) glucose, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein and urea. Results It indicated that the somatotropin-treated group attained puberty 2.5 weeks (18 days) earlier than control one. Somatotropin-treated Rahmani ewe lambs had higher body weight, and body condition score than those of the control one. A similar tendency was observed in average daily gain, withers height and heart girth. Somatotropin administration had a beneficial effect on blood born metabolites as indicated by increased serum glucose, total lipids, cholesterol, IGF-1 and decreased urea of Rahmani ewes-lamb as compared to control one. Conclusion Somatotropin administration enhanced puberty in Rahmani ewe lambs. This is due to increased provision of trophic signals (represented by increased Serum IGF-1 secretions) and/or blood-borne metabolites (glucose, cholesterol and lipid).

Pages 238-240

Authors: Pierre-Marie Tebeu, Eric Brice Touka, Yvette Mawamba, Calvin Tiyou, Joseph Nelson Fomulu, Charles Henry Rochat

Objective To investigate the pattern of Non-obstetrical genital fistula (NOGF) in Cameroonian context. Materials and methods This was a cross-sectional analytic study, with two groups of patients, including those treated for non-obstetrical fistula as subject, and their obstetrical counterparts as the control. Data were retrieved from the obstetric fistula database of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the University Teaching Hospital of Yaoundé Cameroon for patients operated from January, 1, 2009 to December 31, 2012. Results NOGF represented 19.78% of genital fistula. Uro-genital fistula (UGF) represented 72.20% while non-obstetrical genito-digestive fistula (GDF) represented 27.80% of NOGF. The main cause of UGF was hysterectomy (46.15%) while the main cause of genito-digestive fistula was vaginal infections (40.00%). Most patients had never been operated before their arrival in the YUTH (84.60% for UGF and 60.00% for GDF). We had one failure at first surgical attempt. Conclusion UGF fistula is the main type of NOGF in Cameroonian context, with hysterectomy being the leading cause. Proper knowledge on NOGF will enable better strategies to fight against genital fistula.

241-248

Authors: Kousalya Loganathan, V. Narmatha Bai

Objective To develop a method for high frequency plantlets regeneration protocol for Enicostema axillare (Lam.) Raynal ssp. littoralis (Blume) Raynal (E. axillare) without intermediate callus phase and to determine the content and correlation of phenolic compounds and their antioxidant activity of both the plants derived from nature and nodal culture by DPPH assay. Methods The nodal explants were cultured on MS basal medium fortified with different concentration of various growth regulators such as BAP, KIN, TDZ and 2iP (0.5–2 mg/L) individually and in combinations with or without GA3 for shoot bud induction and multiplication. Total phenol and flavonoid content was determined in both plants from nature and nodal culture and antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH assay. Results The highest number of multiple shoot (108.00±3.55 shoots/explants) was obtained on MS medium supplemented with BAP (2 mg/L) in combination with KIN (0.5 mg/L) and GA3 (2 mg/L). Rooting was optimized on half-strength MS medium supplemented with IAA (0.5 mg/L). The rooted plantlets were transferred to paper cups containing vermiculite and hardening was successfully attained with 75% survival. Among the four extract of methanol and water extract from both the plantlet from nature and nodal culture, the concentration of flavonoid was found to be higher in methanol extract of the plants from nature (146.57±1.68 mg rutin/g extract) and phenol content was higher in the water extract of plant from nature (52.53±1.67 mg GAE/g extract). The radical scavenging activity of four extracts. Methanol extract of plant grown in nature showed the highest radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 87.10 μg/mL) was investigated by DPPH test. Conclusion The present study not only enables reinforcement of wild plant populations using ex situ growth of individuals, but it also helps for high scale production of plantlets. A high correlation between antioxidant capacities and their total phenolic contents indicated that flavonoid compounds were a major contributor of antioxidant activity of both plants grown from nature and nodal culture. Citing articles (1) Open Access Open Access Article A case of bilateral primary fallopian tube carcinomaOriginal Research Article Pages 249-252

Pages 90-96

Authors: Melissa Stemp, Peter Roberts, Allison McClements, Vincent Chapple, Jay Natalwala, Michael Black, Phillip Matson

Objective Biomarkers associated with cancer screening (CA125, CA15‐3, CA72‐4, total prostate specific antigen [tPSA]) and the monitoring of pregnancy (pregnancy associated plasma protein‐A [PAPP‐A]) were measured during natural and stimulated ovarian cycles in disease‐free non-pregnant women to determine if they could reflect normal events relating to ovulation and/or endometrial changes. Methods A total of 73 blood samples (10 women) collected throughout the natural menstrual cycle, and 64 blood samples (11 women) taken during stimulated ovarian cycles, were analysed on the Roche Cobas e411 automated analyser. Results Detectable levels of tPSA were measured in at least one point in the cycle in 6/10 of women in the natural cycle and 10/11 of women in stimulated cycles, and CA72-4 was detected in only 12/21 women tested. Concentrations of CA125, tPSA, CA15‐3 and CA72‐4 showed no significant difference between the natural and stimulated ovarian cycle groups. On average the mean PAPP‐A of the natural group was (2.41±0.58) mIU/L higher than the stimulated group (t=4.10, P< 0.001). CA125 and CA15‐3 results were both significantly influenced by the stage of the cycle (P<0.0001), whereas tPSA and PAPP‐A concentrations revealed no significant changes (P≥0.65). CA72‐4 was not affected by the stage of the cycle nor ovarian stimulation. Conclusion Ovarian stimulation reduced serum PAPP‐A levels, CA125 and CA15‐3 levels were generally unaffected by ovarian stimulation but displayed cyclical changes throughout both natural and stimulated cycles, whilst tPSA and CA72-4 were not affected by the stage of the cycle or ovarian stimulation.

Pages 106-109

Authors: Elly Dwi Wahyuni, Cory Chorajon Situmorang, Yuyun Yueniwati, Wisnu Barlianto, Pande Made Dwijayasa

Objective To investigate whether combination of vitamin C and E able to inhibit decreasing angiogenesis, endometrial thickness, and α-estrogen receptor level in female rats receiving orally MSG-treatment. Methods Twenty five female Wistar rats were divided into five group, control group, MSG [140 mg/200 gram body weight (bw)] group non treated and treated with combined vitamin C (0.2; 0.4; or 0.8 mg/g bw) and E (0.04 IU/g bw). Analysis of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level were done by immunohistochemistry technique. Analysis of the number of arteriole and thickness of endometrium was done histopathologically with hematoxylin eosin staining. Analysis of uterus α-estrogen receptor was done using flowcytometer. Results The expression of VEGF, number of arteriole, thickness of endometrium, and α-estrogen receptor were significantly lower in MSG-treatment group compared to control group (P < 0.05). Second and third dose of combined vitamin C and E significantly increased VEGF level and number of arteriole compared to MSG-treatment group (P < 0.05), to reach similar level in control group (P > 0.05). Administration of vitamin C and E significanlty increased the thickness of endometrium, and expression of α-estrogen receptor compared to MSG-treatment group (P < 0.05), reaching the number in the control group (P > 0.05). Conclusions The present data suggesting that combined vitamin C and E able to inhibit endometrial toxicity caused by orally MSG treatment via modulating angiogenesis, increase endometrial thickness and expression of α-estrogen receptor.

Pages 116-120

Authors: Jaime Gosálvez, Stephen Johnston, Carmen López-Fernández, Altea Gosálbez, Francisca Arroyo, Jose Luís Fernández, Juan GÁlvarez

Objective To investigate the DNA longevity characteristics associated with each resultant fraction following density gradient centrifugation (DGC) in comparison to that of the original neat ejaculated sample. Methods An aliquot of neat semen (NSS) collected from 7 patients was processed using DGC resulting in 3 fractions; Fraction 1: seminal plasma/40% gradient interface (GI); Fraction 2: 40%GI/80%GI; Fraction 3: 80%GI/pellet. An aliquot of each fraction and NSS was cryopreserved, thawed and incubated at 37 ° for 24h; the increase of sperm DNA fragmentation was assessed using the Dyn-Halosperm assay following 0, 3, 6 and 24h of incubation. Results While there was a significant reduction in the incidence of baseline sperm DNA fragmentation following DGC in Fraction 3, sperm DNA longevity was shown to be higher in the NSS than in any other sub-population following incubation. The highest levels of baseline DNA damage were found in Fractions 1 and 2; these fractions also showed the highest rate DNA fragmentation following incubation, subsequently exhibiting the lowest DNA longevity. Conclusion 1) Unnecessary incubation of spermatozoa prior to artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization, should be avoided, since sperm DNA longevity is significantly reduced after ex vivo sperm handling and 2) Although sperm selection by DCG significantly reduces the baseline levels of SDF of sperm in Fraction 3, sperm DNA longevity in this fraction was ultimately lower following 24 h incubation when compared to sperm recovered from non-centrifuged NSS.

Pages 128-133

Authors: Niveen M. Daoud, Omaima H. Ezzo

Objective To learn more about reproductive physiology of adult female Arabian horses over a period of 24 months and to examine the effect of breed’s difference between Arabian and European female horses over a period of 36 months on the circulatory levels of both metabolic hormones (IGF-1 and leptin). Methods Thirty female Arabian mares and 22 European non pregnant brood mares exported from Swedish and Germany of ages from 3 to 7 years belonging to Mubarak Police Academy (Abaseia horse farm) was used. Rectal ultrasonography was conducted in Arabian horses to monitor ovarian activity which classified into cyclic ovarian activity, no ovarian activity, and ovarian tumor, pregnancy and postpartum mares were also included in this study. Blood samples from these mares were collected and analyzed for progesterone and Leptin, IGF-1 and Nitric oxide (NO). In the same time, blood samples were collected from Arabian and foreign breeds for IGF-1 and leptin analysis Results There are significant increase in the IGF-1 (778.1±15.7 ng/mL and NO concentrations (39.83±9.15 μM/mL) in case of ovarian tumor. Significant decrease in leptin concentration was recorded (0.61±0.31 ng/mL) in case of postpartum cases. Inactive ovaries mare and pregnant one recorded significant increase in progesterone levels (10.1±1.46 and 22.6±2.0 ng/mL, respectively). On other hand Leptin recorded significant decrease in Arabian horses than European horses (0.86± 0.14 vs. 1.73±1.34), while IGF-1 have no significant change between two breeds. Conclusion The knowledge of the normal and abnormal metabolic and sex hormones concentrations will help us to understand the role of these hormones in reproductive physiological and additionally, potential diagnostic and prognostic uses in both human and veterinary medicine, and will provide information for further research on this equine breeds as well as in human diseases.

Pages 142-149

Authors: Kristin K. Sznajder, Siobán D. Harlow, Sarah A. Burgard, Yan-rang Wang, Cheng Han, Jing Liu

Objective To assess the prevalence of urogenital infection symptoms and their association with occupational stress among women working in export production factories in China. Methods Six hundred and thirty-eight women workers in three factories in Tianjin, China were surveyed. Information was collected on women's demographic characteristics, levels of occupational stress, and urogenital infection symptoms. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Results Among the 638 women who provided information on urogenital symptoms, 30.9% reported at least one symptom: 27.9% reported abnormal discharge, 2.4% reported genital sores, and 6.3% reported pain with urination. Feeling exhausted was associated with an increased risk for reporting genital sores [OR=1.35 (1.05, 1.73)] and pain with urination [OR=1.21 (1.06, 1.39)], while reporting low job security was significantly associated with reporting at least one symptom of urogenital infection [OR=1.51 (1.03, 2.20)]. Conclusions Many women working in China's export factories report symptoms of urogenital infection. Occupational stress may be linked to an increased risk for urogenital infection. Focused efforts are needed to improve accessibility to reproductive health services for women working in China's export production factories.

Pages 156-168

Authors: G N Purohit

Ovarian pathologies observed in the buffalo include developmental anomalies, inflammatory conditions and neoplasm's, the usual incidence of which has been observed to be low (0.1%–19.0%) in abattoir studies. Ovarian functional disorders are the most frequently observed clinical entities in buffalo and include conditions such as sub estrus, (7.4%–55.8%), persistent corpus luteum (0.54%) and ovarian cysts (0.5%–1.4%). The diagnostic approaches for ovarian hypofunction and ovarian pathologies include transrectal palpation and transrectal ultrasonography the efficiency of which continues to be suboptimal especially for unilateral small sized pathological conditions. Techniques such as laparoscopy have been utilized for visualization of buffalo ovaries however; their clinical use appears to be uncommon. The therapy of most ovarian pathologies except the functional disorders appears to be difficult. The prospects of surgical removal of ovaries in neoplastic ovarian pathologies are limited owing to the costs and loss of reproductive function under bilateral conditions. Oviductal pathologies in buffalo have been mentioned largely from abattoir studies and include salpingitis (0.2%–14.2%), hydrosalpinx (0.7%–14.2%), pyosalpinx (0.6%–11.9%), adhesions (1.5%–1.7%), congenital defects (0.2%) and oviductal blockage (1.2%–37.8%). The diagnosis of most oviductal pathologies in buffalo appears to be difficult except under conditions of gross enlargement. Under situations of bilateral involvement the therapy of most oviductal pathologies currently seems impractical as the reattainment of fertility appears to be difficult.